Quick Picks for Your Jungle Trip

Short on time? These quick picks highlight the very best of the region. They ensure you do not miss the top landmarks. Use these for a fast planning guide.

• Best Overall: Lake Sandoval
• Best for Birdwatchers: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
• Best Adventure: Inkaterra Canopy Walkway
• Best for Families: Mariposario Tambopata

Each of these options offers a unique look at the rainforest. You should choose based on your fitness level. Some sites require long boat rides or morning hikes.

10 Best Things to See in Tambopata National Reserve

This list features the most spectacular sights in the protected area. Each item includes practical details for your visit. Most require a certified guide for entry.

1. Name: Lake Sandoval
   Type: Nature/Sight
   Why go: It is the most beautiful lake in the Amazon. You can see giant otters and black caimans here.
   Best for: Photographers and families.
   Where: 30 minutes by boat from Puerto Maldonado plus a 3km walk.
   Time: 4-6 hours.
   Cost: Included in most lodge packages or Lake Sandoval tour guide sessions.
   Tip: Go very early in the morning to avoid the heat and see more birds.
2. Name: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
   Type: Wildlife Experience
   Why go: Hundreds of colorful macaws gather here daily to eat salt and minerals. It is a loud and vibrant spectacle.
   Best for: Bird enthusiasts.
   Where: Deep inside the reserve, up the Tambopata River.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Part of specialized macaw clay lick trips.
   Tip: Bring high-quality binoculars for a closer look at the birds.
3. Name: Inkaterra Canopy Walkway
   Type: Viewpoint/Activity
   Why go: This safe system of bridges lets you walk high above the forest floor. You get a bird's eye view of the jungle.
   Best for: View seekers.
   Where: Near the Reserva Amazonica lodge.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Typically included in lodge stays.
   Tip: Keep a lookout for sloths and toucans in the upper branches.
4. Name: Colorado Macaw Clay Lick
   Type: Wildlife Experience
   Why go: This is one of the largest clay licks in the world. Many parrot and macaw species visit this specific cliff.
   Best for: Wildlife photographers.
   Where: Several hours upriver from the town.
   Time: Half-day or morning.
   Cost: Requires a multi-day tour package.
   Tip: Wear neutral colors to blend in with the environment.
5. Name: Tambopata River Night Safari
   Type: Adventure/Experience
   Why go: Searching for caimans by boat at night is thrilling. The jungle sounds completely different after the sun sets.
   Best for: Adventure seekers.
   Where: Along the Tambopata River banks.
   Time: 1-2 hours after dusk.
   Cost: Usually provided by riverside lodges.
   Tip: Use a headlamp with a red light to see animals without scaring them.
6. Name: Sachavacayoc Lake
   Type: Nature/Sight
   Why go: This lake is more remote and quieter than Lake Sandoval. It offers great chances to see the tapir, or "sachavaca."
   Best for: Hikers.
   Where: Accessible from deeper jungle lodges.
   Time: 4-5 hours.
   Cost: Part of extended jungle tours.
   Tip: Wear waterproof boots as the trail can be very muddy.
7. Name: Palma Real Native Community
   Type: Local Experience
   Why go: Learn about the Ese Eja culture and their sustainable lifestyle. You can see traditional crafts and hunting techniques.
   Best for: Culture lovers.
   Where: Along the Madre de Dios River.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Modest community fee or included in tours.
   Tip: Respect local privacy and always ask before taking photos.
8. Name: El Gato Creek Trail
   Type: Nature/Hiking
   Why go: This trail system is famous for its diverse insect and frog species. It is perfect for a close-up look at micro-wildlife.
   Best for: Macrophotography fans.
   Where: Near the Refugio Amazonas area.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Included in lodge activities.
   Tip: Bring bug spray as mosquitoes are active on this trail.
9. Name: Mariposario Tambopata (Butterfly House)
   Type: Indoor/Experience
   Why go: See dozens of local butterfly species in a beautiful garden. It is a great introduction to jungle biodiversity.
   Best for: Families with children.
   Where: Very close to the Puerto Maldonado airport.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Small entrance fee.
   Tip: Visit just before catching your flight home.
10. Name: Condenado Lake
    Type: Nature/Sight
    Why go: A series of small lakes perfect for spotting swamp birds. It is often less crowded than other sites.
    Best for: Peace and quiet.
    Where: Middle section of the reserve.
    Time: 3 hours.
    Cost: Included in mid-range lodge tours.
    Tip: Look for hoatzins, which are strange-looking prehistoric birds.

Essential Travel Planning Tips for 2026

When deciding what to see in Tambopata National Reserve, consider the seasons. The dry season runs from May to October. This is the best time for hiking and clay lick visits. Rain can make trails difficult between December and March.

You must pay an entrance fee to access the reserve. Check the latest entry fees for Tambopata National Reserve 2026 before you go. Most legitimate tour operators include this in their total price.

Fly into the Puerto Maldonado airport for easy access. From there, boats provide the main transport deeper into the forest. Pack light, breathable clothing and high-SPF sunscreen. Always use a licensed guide for safety and better wildlife sightings.